Transportation in a post-9/11 world

Wednesday

Aug 17, 2011 at 12:01 AMAug 17, 2011 at 5:17 PM

Some of the most noticeable changes experienced by the average American since the terrorist attacks of 2001 have taken place at the airport. The attacks ushered in a new era of stringent safety policies.

Carolyn Sperry

Some of the most noticeable changes experienced by the average American since the terrorist attacks of 2001 have taken place at the airport. The attacks ushered in a new era of stringent safety policies.

After the creation of the Transportation Security Administration by President George W. Bush, airline passengers had to adapt to an ever-changing set of rules in order to keep flying. These rules — while often confusing, frustrating and controversial — were based on the TSA’s knowledge of credible threats and had to evolve as the information did.

TSA spokesman Kawika Riley explains where the TSA is coming from in what they ask of passengers.

Q. What do people need to know about body scanners or pat-downs at airports? Is there a way to prepare for this so it goes as quickly as it can?

A. Imaging technology has been widely accepted as an alternative to the pat-down. In fact, advanced imaging technology has led to the detection of more than 200 prohibited, illegal or dangerous items at checkpoints nationwide since January 2010.

There are two security officers involved in this screening process. One officer will ask passengers to remove all objects from their pockets (including nonmetallic items) before entering. This officer never sees the passenger’s image. Another screening officer in a walled-off location views the black and white image generated by the technology. After review by the screening officer and resolution of any anomalies, the image is immediately deleted and cannot be saved. The entire process takes less than one minute.

Passengers who opt out of imaging technology screening will receive alternative screening, including a physical pat-down.

Before going through imaging technology, TSA recommends removing all items from pockets and certain accessories that passengers might be wearing, including wallets, belts, bulky jewelry, money, keys and cellphones. Removing these items will reduce the need for additional screening after exiting the machine. To avoid leaving any personal items behind, place them in carry-on bags before entering the checkpoint.

Q. What would you say to passengers who complain about having to comply with airport security measures?

A. We respect travelers, and we are always looking to do a better job of protecting them from would-be terrorists while treating them in a respectful manner.

Q. For those who haven’t flown in a while, what are the most important things to know when packing carry-ons or heading to the airport?

A. Passengers who are prepared for security screening before they reach the checkpoint will help make the process easier for themselves and other passengers.

As part of TSA’s layered approach to security that helps keep the traveling public safe, passengers should be prepared to encounter security measures that could occur on a random basis at various locations in the airport environment. This could include the use of explosive trace detection technology — used to screen carry-on items and hands — as well as K9 teams, behavior detection officers, bottled liquid screening technology and advanced imaging technologies.

Finally, remember three simple steps to security:

1. Have your ID and boarding pass out and ready.
2. Take off shoes and jackets.
3. Take out liquids (in a baggie) and laptops.

Q. How do I know what’s currently prohibited in my carry-on bags?

A. The best approach is to find out before you reach the checkpoint. Travelers can visit www.tsa.gov and use our “Can I bring …” keyword search, or download TSA’s (smartphone) app.